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Major Ian N. Brookes Gom

Published on: March 2025

Record: HANSARD-1323879322-151666

Major Ian N. Brookes Gom

Ms FELICITY WILSON (North Shore)

—I want to congratulate Mosman resident, Major Ian N. Brookes GOM, who was recently honoured by the King of Cambodia. At 84, Major Brookes was appointed as a Knight Grand Officer of the Royal Order of Monisaraphon for his exceptional service in the prevention of blindness and restoration of sight in Cambodia. For years, he has been instrumental in establishing and now supporting the Battambang Ophthalmic [BOC]; Cambodia's most advanced eye care unit. Despite no government or international funding, BOC performed 23% of Cambodia's eye surgeries last year and employs 30 Cambodians, including two ophthalmologists. A proud Mosman local of 50 years, Major Brookes previously served as Operations Officer of 10 Terminal Regiment at Middle Head and later commanded the Army Maritime School at Chowder Bay. After 26 years in the Australian Army, he became a United Nations official, contributing to the UN mission in Cambodia. He also played a key role in the successful Save Middle Head campaign in 2013. I congratulate Major Brookes on this honour, recognising a lifetime of service to both Australia and Cambodia. Thank you, Major Brookes, for making such a difference in the lives of so many.